GET MOTIVATED WITH DPM PERFORMANCE blog ed 13

This weekend I've noticed 4 inspiring efforts from the sporting area. I was able to find a take home point out of each effort, although they all summed up something different.

The first one I read about in one of the Sunday papers yesterday. It involved a deaf fencer who was training for a spot in the Olympic Games. Yes, the Olympic Games. He actually believed that his deafness was a benefit as he had to focus more.

How's that for looking at the glass half full!

For some reason, something drew me to read that article. Now, I don't know about you, but I'd rather watch paint dry then watch fencing, but that's not the point of the story. Anyone who rises from their disadvantages to make something of themselves is alright in my book.

Another inspiring effort, was from Roger Federer, who was 2 points away from losing a match deep in the 5th set of the Aussie Open but dug deep and found that little bit extra.

I was half hoping the underdog would win, but you can't knock a champion, and they always show their class when it counts. When the hard was is to be done, you know who you can turn too. Important take home point number 2.

If there's anyone I'd want playing for my life in any sport, Federer would definately make the shortlist.

My number 3 was also from the tennis, and if you've been glued to your tv set like me, can probably imagine I'm talking about Casey Dellacqua. The Aussie underdog stepped up big time on Friday night to beat Mauresmo convincingly and put in a great fight last night against the #3 in the world going to a tie break in the first set. Take home point number 3 - back yourself, even if no one else will.

The final inspiring moment for me was on Saturday (yes i watched a bit of sport this weekend!).

While we were getting pasted by the Indians in the cricket, Mitchell Johnson and Stuart Clark, who if you are not familiar with the game, definately are not recognised batsmen stepped up and had a go and belted the Indians around the park. Not bad when our top order batsmen hardly troubled the scorers.

A comparison, for the North American readers would be John Smoltz hitting 2 grandslams while Chipper Jones goes 0-5 all game. Take home point number 4 - go down fighting. Don't take a backwards step.

I hope you can gain another insight into some great performances. By looking a little deeper at any situation, you can often take a lot more out of it then it would otherwise seem.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

More Flavours, More Protection

By Kelley Herring

The sharp bite of red onion. The finish of your favorite Pinot Noir. The astringency of your cup of green tea. All three have something in common: flavonoids.

The health benefits of this vast group of compounds has been the subject of extensive studies.

The results? Most studies show a significant inverse link between flavonoid consumption and the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

There are many ways in which flavonoids work their tasty magic. They:

· Halt the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol

· Reduce the potential for a dangerous blood clot

· Improve the function of red blood cells

· Help reduce inflammation

So don't shy away from potent flavors. In general, the stronger the flavor, the more flavonoids a food contains... and the more protection it offers.

Remember to stock up on these on your next grocers trip.

Get out and make it a great week!

What's your excuse?

Fire UP!